PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 

Thursday, December 16, 2010

Contact:          

Department of Public Works (DPW):               415-554-6931

SF Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC):        415-554-3247

City Encourages Residents and Businesses to Get Ready for Storms

San Francisco, CA—Rain is projected from Friday through Sunday with a winter weather pattern to continue next week. Storm Preparedness tips and resources are available at www.sfdpw.org, www.sfwater.org and www.72hours.org to help residents and businesses protect themselves and their property from potential damage caused by storms over the next several days.

The City is encouraging residents and businesses to:

• Sweep up leaves and debris from sidewalks and curbs to help prevent clogged storm drains that can lead to localized flooding during heavy rains. Leaves can be composted in the green bin.
• Inspect your street tree for weak or unstable limbs by a certified arborist. During the winter months, high winds coupled with rain can cause tree limbs to fail resulting in property damage.
• Get free sandbags to protect against flooding. San Francisco residents can go to the Department of Public Works’ Operations Yard (2323 Cesar Chavez Street, enter at Marin Gate) Residents are required to bring proof of San Francisco residency. There is a limit of ten sandbags per address.
• Consider installing a back-flow prevention device if any of your inside drains or fixtures are lower than the side sewer vent on the sidewalk. 
• Store emergency items such as first aid kits, flashlights and portable radios in a safe, high place.
• Always store drinking water in closed, clean containers in case water service is interrupted. Allow one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days.
• Prepare written instructions on how to turn off electricity, gas and water if authorities advise you to do so. (Remember, you'll need a professional to turn them back on).

DPW and the SF PUC are clearing storm drains and scheduling additional sewer crews to work through the weekend. 

The public can call 311 to report downed tree limbs or flooding.